HR and Payroll Support Specialist

HR and Payroll Support Specialist (Full-Time, Temporary)
Anticipate the role being needed for 6-12 months

Cherry Tree Dental | Madison, WI (Remote)

Cherry Tree Dental is a growing dental service organization committed to helping practices deliver exceptional patient care. Our team works collaboratively across locations to provide operational, clinical, and financial support that empowers dental professionals to thrive.

The HR and Payroll Support Specialist (Temporary) is responsible for supporting core payroll and human resources functions with a focus on accuracy, confidentiality, and customer service. This entry-level role will assist in processing payroll, maintain employee records, completing employment verifications, and responding to routine HR inquiries. This temporary position will support the Cherry Tree Dental Human Resources team during a transition to a shared service model with our new owner.

**While this role will primarily be remote, it will require occasional travel to Cherry Tree Dental clinical sites, work locations, vendor locations, therefore candidates should be within a reasonable distance of Madison, WI.**

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform accurate and timely HRIS data entry for new hires, terminations, transfers, and employee updates.
• Assist with bi-weekly payroll processing, including timecard review, corrections, payroll adjustments.
• Maintain and update employee personnel files in compliance with company policy and regulatory requirements.
• Complete employee verifications and respond to routine HR and payroll-related inquiries.
• Provide onboarding support, such as preparing new hire documents, entering I-9 information.
• Track and update employee leave requests, PTO balances, and FMLA documentation as directed.
• Generate and distribute routine reports from HRIS and payroll systems (e.g., headcount, turnover, overtime).
• Assist with processing and reconciling benefit enrollments, changes, and deductions during payroll.
• Support compliance by ensuring accurate documentation and reporting.
• Provide excellent customer service to employees by addressing basic HR and payroll questions in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with the HR team on special projects and other administrative tasks as needed during the transition period.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree in human resources, business administration, or related field.
• Education and relative work experience can be considered in lieu of associate's degree.
• Two years experience in HR, payroll, or administrative support.
• Familiarity with HRIS and payroll systems (Paychex, ADP, etc.).
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills 
• Strong professional written, verbal, and presentation skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently in a team environment with limited supervision
• Ability to occasionally travel for work, including out of town and overnight, for various meetings or professional development opportunities